If you had to pick just one.

Hi Ben,

I've seen you use a CNC machine, a Lazer cutter and a 3D printer. I have limmited space and limmited funds and I'd like to know which I should you buy if I can only have one. I'm intrested in small projects centered around Arduinos, Raspberry PIs and older game consoles.

Thanks,

Collin

Former Member over 12 years ago

I'm in the same boat. I have a small apartment with limited space. I decided to go with a CNC machine. mainly because it is easier than the others. I do hope to build a plastic printer next. I also like the CNC because I could etch my PCB for other projects. It would speed up my development.

good luck
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Former Member over 12 years ago

I think it could come to what material you like best because both machines can cut different materials. But if you are worried about size the lazer cutter is a bit smaller and makes less noise but there is so much more you can do a cnc like @ashitakalax can etch pcb.
It all comes down to if you want a smaller unit that makes less noise or do you want a bigger unit that can do more.
ps: I have seen small cnc's but they can get expensive.
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benheck over 12 years ago

I probably use my laser the most. It's fast, accurate and as easy to use a printer. Main negatives are cost and having to vent it.

3d printing is awesome but slow, CNC is great for large stuff but makes a mess.
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QuantumAberrant over 12 years ago in reply to benheck

So if I can't vent the lazer then 3d is my best choice? I'll deal with it being slow. Whats a good starter 3D printer?

Thanks
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benheck over 12 years ago in reply to QuantumAberrant

http://www.shapeoko.com/
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